Gongs

The history of gongs

Gongs belong to the musical instruments of the percussion group. They are one of the oldest musical instruments in human history. The age of the oldest discovered gongs is estimated to be around 4000 years old, far surpassing even Tibetan singing bowls. It is therefore no wonder that the sound of gongs can touch us so deeply.

The first documented written mention of gongs comes from the 6th century B.C. from China. It follows from it, however, that another, not precisely determined, civilization from the Central Asian region introduced the Chinese to the production and use of gongs. The Chinese used gongs in various religious and political ceremonies, in the presence of the emperor, but also as a signal for summoning troops to battle. From China gongs then spread to other areas of the world, especially to Southeast Asia, later to Africa, until they finally arrived in Europe, around the 18th century.

Different styles of gongs

Gongs are made in a variety of sizes, styles and shapes. Just like dialects in a language or branches of religion, gongs also developed depending on the area and culture in which they were used. Gongs are usually flat or, possibly with a small dome in the middle and the edges are curved, but also in a simplest form, which you can also find sometimes in our offer. Gongs are made by hammering metal, usually bronze or brass.

What gongs do we offer?

All gongs in offer are hand-beaten and come from Nepal. The traditional engraved decoration consists of the syllables of the most famous Buddhist mantra Om Mani Padme Hum, or some of the 8 lucky symbols of Ashtamangala or others.
In terms of sound, they belong to the so-called sun gongs, in which, unlike, for example, wind gongs, lower tones dominate.You will also find a short sound sample for each gong.